2026 Piping Competitions
The definitive calendar of major piping and drumming competitions worldwide. From the hallowed grounds of Oban to the stages of Kansas City.
January 2026
The Winter Storm
One of the premier solo piping competitions in North America, attracting top-tier competitors from around the world for an intensive weekend of piping and drumming.
March 2026
New Zealand Pipe Band Championships
The national pipe band championships of New Zealand, featuring bands of all grades competing across multiple disciplines.
Southeast US Piping & Drumming Championship
A major solo piping and drumming contest in the southeastern United States, drawing competitors from across the region.
April 2026
Australian Pipe Band Championships
Australia's premier pipe band competition, rotating between states and showcasing the finest bands from across the continent.
Metro Cup
A well-regarded solo piping and drumming competition on the US East Coast, attracting strong fields from the northeast piping community.
May 2026
George Sherriff Memorial
A prestigious Canadian solo piping competition honouring the legacy of George Sherriff, featuring high-calibre competitors.
August 2026
Piping Live! Glasgow International Piping Festival
The world's premier piping festival, a week-long celebration featuring recitals, competitions, workshops, and performances across Glasgow.
World Pipe Band Championships
The pinnacle of pipe band competition. Bands from across the globe converge on Glasgow Green to compete for the coveted World Championship title.
The Argyllshire Gathering
One of the two most prestigious solo piping competitions in the world, held in the picturesque town of Oban. The Gold and Silver Medal events are the highest honours in solo piping.
Maxville Highland Games
North America's largest Highland Games, featuring pipe band and solo competitions that draw competitors from across the continent.
September 2026
Northern Meeting
Alongside the Argyllshire Gathering, the Northern Meeting is considered the most prestigious solo piping competition. The Clasp and Gold Medal are the highest accolades a solo piper can achieve.
October 2026
Glenfiddich Piping Championship
An invitation-only championship for the top solo pipers in the world. Held at the stunning Blair Castle, it is the ultimate test of piping excellence.
World Solo Drumming Championships
The world championship for solo pipe band drumming, drawing the finest snare, tenor, and bass drummers to compete at the highest level.
November 2026
Scottish Piping Society of London Competition
A prestigious competition organised by the Scottish Piping Society of London, featuring top-class solo piping in the heart of England's capital.